Sad to say but it has happened - a wipe out or an engine failure on a cold Wyoming highway has left more than one traveler stranded in the middle of nowhere while temperatures continue to drop.

People have frozen to death, and there was no need for it.

No matter if your commute is short or long, there are a few simple things that we should all keep in our vehicles for winter.

The video below has a good list of basic necessities - a couple of things I would add is a box of those warming packets that you can shove into your clothing if you think you'll be stuck for a long period of time without help.

It is also a good idea to always let people know when you are traveling and what route your are taking.